Botafogo, the leaders of Brazil’s Serie A, have secured a major boost by signing Diego Costa through a free transfer, the club announced on Saturday. The former Chelsea and Atletico Madrid striker’s arrival comes as a strategic move to address the ongoing injury crisis faced by the team.

In the aftermath of an unfortunate knee ligament injury sustained by Tiquinho Soares, a prominent former Porto striker, during Botafogo’s recent 0-0 draw against Cruzeiro, the team found themselves grappling with a scarcity of attacking options up-front.

Diego Costa, aged 34, emerged as a free agent subsequent to his departure from Premier League outfit Wolverhampton Wanderers in June. The agreement with Botafogo entails a four-month contract for Costa, injecting his experience and prowess into the squad. The team has been displaying dominance in the Brazilian league, securing an impressive 14 victories out of 18 matches, which has propelled them to a commanding 12-point lead at the top of the table.

Furthermore, Botafogo is vigorously contending for their second Copa Sudamericana title. In the upcoming quarter-finals, they will face off against Defensa y Justicia, representing Argentina.

Diego Costa expressed his elation about joining the Botafogo family through his social media platform on Saturday, stating, “I’m very happy to have been chosen to be part of the family. Thanks and I see you soon.”

The club itself affirmed their commitment to enhancing the squad’s quality, underscoring the significance of Diego Costa’s addition. The 34-year-old striker’s contract will extend until the conclusion of 2023. Costa is anticipated to arrive in Rio de Janeiro in the ensuing days and reunite with coach Bruno Lage, with whom he had collaborated during their time at Wolverhampton in the English Premier League.

Diego Costa boasts a remarkable track record, particularly during his stint at Chelsea from 2014 to 2017. He accumulated an impressive tally of 59 goals across various competitions, significantly contributing to the club’s attainment of two Premier League titles during his tenure, following his acquisition for a substantial transfer fee of 32 million pounds.

His prolific scoring abilities were consistently showcased, as he clinched the role of top scorer for Chelsea in all three seasons. However, a disagreement with then-manager Antonio Conte culminated in a swift departure, leading him back to his former club, Atletico Madrid, in Spain.

Throughout his two spells at Atletico, Diego Costa excelled by netting a total of 83 goals. His contributions played a pivotal role in securing two LaLiga titles and a triumphant victory in the Europa League.